Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Something good for myself

"I want to know that every day I am doing something good for myself." This is one of the reasons I want to live a healthier life. I want to do something good for me. At the end of the day I find so much satisfaction in the fact that I ate right, or I went for a run, or I declined the offer to go get a soda. I did something for me! I even feel like my pants fit looser, which is probably one of the best feelings in the world.

So all of you readers out there, because I know there are SO MANY, go ahead and be selfish-do something good for yourself! I bet you will love the feeling :)

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Motivation

It always seems like I have plenty of things that "motivate" me, but never enough to take action.

My motivation includes:
Not needing a liver transplant (should be a huge factor right? Well, its easy to forget about)
losing the weight before I get pregnant
looking better in a swimsuit
more self confidence

But the latest motivation is probably the most petty. I want to wear these straight (not skinny, not jeggings) jeans from American Eagle. I really really love these, and I know the only way they will look good on me is if I were to drop a few pounds. Right now they would only bring out my flaws.

So, here is my plan. If I can lose 10 pounds, which would also allow me to drop a pant size, I will buy them. Man, why does it have to be so hard?

Sunday, October 10, 2010

FINALLY

I am finally seeing some progress, the first 3 pounds have dropped! You know what it finally took? Me not eating sugar, go figure. So, I am going to continue to not eat sugar, eat healthy snacks, exercise and see where it takes me! With apples and peaches in season, healthy snacks are easy! I just purchased a cute dress from Shabby Apple for family pictures coming up, and I want to look great in it!

Another thing that has really helped me is that my husband has gained some weight. He wants to lose it so we have been keeping each other motivated and in check.

I will let you know how it goes and if I drop a few more pounds this week I will take a picture of my progress!

Tootles

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Homemade Pizza

This pizza is to. die. for. I apologize for the picture. I have never claimed to be a photographer, and it was taken from my phone.

What you will need:
Oven
Pizza Stone and peel

Dough: 275 Cal/Pizza
2.5 C Flour
1 T Sugar
1 t Salt
1 T Instant Yeast
1 C Warm Water

Sauce: 32 Cal/Pizza
I used...
1 6oz can of tomato past
1 6oz can of water
Shirley J pizza seasoning
You can use..
Whatever pizza sauce is your favorite (just know it will change the calories)

Toppings: 300 Cal/Pizza

3 C. Mozz. Cheese (serving size is 100 cal for 1/4 cup)

Fresh Basil

Directions:

Preheat oven to 500 degrees, make sure pizza stone is in there for about 45 min-1 hour before you start baking the pizza.

Combine flour, salt, sugar and yeast in a mixer until well blended. Add warm water. You may not need all of it, just pour until it forms a ball. I usually use about 3/4 of the water.

Knead the dough on a floured board for a few minutes until soft. Add more flour if too sticky, add more water if too dry.

Put the dough in a greased pan and cover with a towel, let sit for 15 minutes. You can prepare the sauce at this time if needed.

After the 15 minutes is up divide the dough into four equal balls. Take one ball at a time and roll it out on a floured board. I like my pizza extra thin, but you can make it as thin, thick, big, small as you like!

Once it is all rolled out place it on the pizza peel, which should have a light sprinkling of corn meal so the dough doesn't stick, and start assembling! Use a fork to punch some holes in the dough so that is doesn't bubble. Put your sauce (2-3 oz), cheese (3/4 C), and fresh basil on top. Stick it in the oven (make sure the stone has some corn meal on it too) and let it cook for about 8 minutes.

Take it out and enjoy!

This recipe makes 4 individual pizzas, probably 2 full size pizzas. I like to make 4 individual so that we have a few extra for lunches.

So, total Calories per pizza: 607! I find that if I roll out my dough really thin, I am less likely to eat the whoel pizza, I usually eat 3/4

Note: calories may vary depending on the cheese and sauce you use. I reccomend making your own sauce, it tastes so much better and is usually much healthier.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Super Snacks

I read alot of health and well-being articles on the internet. I am always trying to find new workout ideas and information on food. I want to know why what I am eating is good for me.

I found an article on msn.com that included 5 super snacks. I love to snack, so of course I was curious. And of course, I want to share this information with you.

5 Super Snacks: 5 Best Snacks for Energy
Nikki Jong

Almonds
Almonds are packed with a potent combination of energy-enriching nutrients, including manganese, vitamin E, magnesium, tryptophan, copper, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and phosphorus. Magnesium has been called a miracle mineral because of its multifunctional capabilities: In addition to being an essential part of more than 300 biological processes, magnesium aids in the production of energy, supports the immune system, improves sleep patterns, relaxes muscles, relieves stress and anxiety, and boosts mood.The protein and fiber in almonds stabilizes blood sugar and slows digestion, which helps regulate energy, so you have steady reserves over time. Healthy fats like the kind found in almonds have been found to curb appetite and prevent overeating that can result in weight gain and its accompanying feelings of fatigue. The fat and fiber in almonds also contribute a feeling of satiety that helps prevent mindless snacking. For these reasons, almonds and other nuts are frequently recommended as part of a healthy diet for people looking to lose weight.

Yogurt
Yogurt is full of calcium, phosphorus, protein, tryptophan, molybdenum, and zinc. It's also a great source of vitamins B2 (riboflavin), B5 (pantothenic acid), and B12 (cobalamin). Thanks to its liquid-like state, the nutrients in yogurt are assimilated quickly and easily during digestion, which means you get an immediate boost of energy. Yogurt's high protein content means that energy also has staying power.Protein-rich snacks like yogurt can even pump up your probability for ditching the pounds. Since protein takes time to digest, you'll feel satisfied for longer—which means less snacking and fewer calorie splurges throughout the day.Yogurt also supplies the brain with tyrosine, an amino acid that boosts blood levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, resulting in a mood and mental boost. In a number of studies, tyrosine has also been effective at fighting fatigue.

Pineapple
Pineapple is one of summer's most popular fruits simply because it's so delicious. But if you want more reasons, look no further: A rich source of manganese, vitamin C, vitamin B1 (thiamin), copper, fiber, and vitamin B6, this juicy fruit is a super snack for fueling energy.Thanks to high levels of naturally occurring sugar (fructose), dietary fiber, and water, fresh pineapple is nature's equivalent of a kick in the pants. The carbohydrate-rich fructose breaks down quickly for an immediate energy boost, while the fiber slows digestion for long-lasting results. Pineapple's energy-extending capabilities don't stop there: Manganese and thiamin are both essential in energy production and help metabolize carbohydrates. And the vitamin B6 in pineapple plays a part in converting tryptophan into serotonin in the brain for a natural mood booster.In terms of energy, digestion is one of the costliest bodily functions. The good news: Pineapple contains bromelain, which contains a number of enzymes that help improve digestion. In addition, eating fluid-filled foods like pineapple can help prevent dehydration, one of the most common culprits of zapped energy. Water is necessary for every bodily function, including converting calories into energy, and even a slight dip in fluids leads to physical and mental fatigue.

Whole wheat snacks
Whole grains—especially whole wheat—are full of essential nutrients that energize both body and brain, including fiber; manganese; magnesium; iron; protein; carbohydrates; and vitamins B1, B2, and B3. Whole wheat is loaded with energizing B vitamins, which fight fatigue, maintain energy levels, stabilize blood sugar, improve sleep patterns, coordinate nerve and muscle activity, and boost mood.Simple carbs like white bread and sweets provide a quick surge of energy, but the results are temporary. What's more, the energy comes courtesy of a spike in blood sugar; once that subsides, you'll feel depleted and fatigued. The complex carbohydrates in whole wheat, however, are absorbed more slowly, which translates into stable blood sugar levels for hours at a time and gradual, lasting energy.Carbs are also full of tryptophan, the amino acid precursor to the feel-good chemical serotonin produced in the brain. Too much tryptophan can trigger a spike in serotonin that leads to drowsiness, though, so the key is to pick healthy carbohydrates such as whole grain toast, which is full of fiber, to slow digestion and regulate the flow of serotonin. That way, you'll get a happy mood boost without the drowsiness.

Edamame
Edamame, or boiled soybeans, are a great pick-me-up because they're easy to make, easy to transport, and fun to eat right out of the shell. Soybeans are full of nutrients that contribute directly to a boost in energy as well as mood.A single cup of edamame provides 116 percent of the recommended daily amount of tryptophan, which helps regulate appetite, enhance sleep, and improve mood—three factors that play a significant role in affecting energy levels. In the same serving, you'll get 57 percent of the recommended amount of protein, 43 percent of your daily omega-3 fatty acids, 41 percent of fiber, and 49 percent of your daily iron—all important contributors to sustained energy.Soybeans are also super-rich in molybdenum, an essential trace mineral that helps cells function properly, facilitates the use of iron reserves, aids in metabolizing fat and carbohydrates, enhances alertness, improves concentration, and helps balance blood sugar levels. All of these functions are crucially linked to the production and sustainability of energy. Molybdenum also helps prevent anemia, a common culprit of iron-deficiency-related fatigue.Plus, soybeans are packed with folate, a natural mood booster that's been shown to increase serotonin levels and improve symptoms of depression.

Happy Snacking!

Strength

"Strength is the ability to break a chocolate bar into four pieces with your bare hands - and then eat just one of those pieces”
-Judith Viorst

I read this quote the other day and love it. I made cookies last night. I only ate two and threw the rest away. I'm not quite strong enough to just let them sit in front of me and not partake.

Friday, August 20, 2010

Apparently... I lie

Okay, I know this should not be an excuse, but my life has been absolutely crazy lately! I have not had time to even think about blogging. But.. I have been eating pretty good and I think I have already lost a few pounds :)

One thing that has kept me in line is the Iphone app "Lose It". This is just awesome. It keeps track of my daily food intake and exercise and tells me how I am doing on my weight loss goals. If you don't have an Iphone, don't worry. You can just set up an account on their website and start there!

Recipes to come soon!

Sunday, July 25, 2010

This is just sad.

Alright. As you can probably tell, I'm not doing so well losing weight or blogging. I have motivation, but I just can't seem to stay on track. I stepped on the scale yesterday- I have gained three pounds! I could blame this weight gain on many things: new job, super busy, haven't felt well, etc.. But, when it comes down to it, I know I just haven't eaten right.
I know that my purpose is not only to lose weight, but to change my lifestyle. Sadly, I haven't accomplished either.
I am sick of looking at others who have so much will power while I eat another piece of cake. I am sick of not fitting into my jeans. I am sick of not feeling like myself. I NEED CHANGE!
So, I am going to start now. I'm serious. I need to put my foot down and say no to myself. I just need to do it. It takes 23 days to create a habit and I'm starting tonight!

The game plan:
1. I am going to sit down tonight and plan out my meals for the week. If I have everything planned out I am less likely to eat fast food or eat junk.
2. I will workout every morning. If I wait until after work I am too tired.
3. I will be more active after work and not sit on the couch all night.
4. I will make goals for myself and find non-food rewards for when I reach these goals.
5. I will blog my meal plans and other tidbits every day.

I can do this!

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Well Crap

I did horrible with the last meal plan. Well, not horrible, I just ate a wendy's chicken sandwich instead of an omellete. I was so hungry that I was sick and I needed something pronto.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Meal Plan

Here is my meal plan for today:

Breakfast: Low Sugar Oatmeal, Banana, Fiber: 250 Calories
Lunch: Panini, Chips, Grapes: 380 Calories
Snack: Light Yogurt: 110 Calories
Dinner: Spinach and Cheese Omelette and Broccoli: 450 Calories
Snack: Toast and Jam: 150 Calories
Total: 1340 Calories :)

I MUST STICK TO THIS!

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Sundays

Sundays have to be the hardest day for me to eat healthy. All I want to do is snack and sleep- a very bad combination. And to top it off we always go to our parents house for dinner and they always have yummy dessert. I think it is hard because I am around my house all day with not a lot to do, so I eat to fill the time.
I have yet to find a remedy for this sabbath day over-eating problem. Any suggestions?

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Meal Plan

Alright, here is today's meal plan

Breakfast: Low Sugar Oatmeal, Banana, Fiber: 250 Calories
Snack: Yogurt: 100 Calories
Lunch: Subway Veggie Sandwich: 350 Calories
Snack: Cottage Cheese and Peaches: 100 Calories
Dinner: Pulled Pork Sandwich, Salad: apprx. 700 Calories (I'll do the math tonight)
Snack: Toast or Sugar Free Pudding: 60 Calories
Total: 1560

I WILL stick to this :)

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Actual Meal Plan

Well, here is my actual calorie intake....

Breakfast: Low Sugar Oatmeal, Banana, Fiber: 250 Calories
Snack: Yogurt: 100 Calories
Lunch: Panini, Cottage Cheese, Peaches: 300 Calories
Snack: Chips and Salsa: 200 Calories
Dinner: Subway Veggie Sandwich, Granola Bar: 450 Calories
Snack: German Chocolate Cake, Ice cream: 400 Calories (Curse the temptation of birthday cake!)
Total: 1700 Calories. Hey, at least I'm still under my recommended daily intake
Calories Burned: 250 Calories (Yoga)
Total: 1450 :)

My goal tomorrow: Stick to my plan! Why do I love sugar so much???

Meal Plans

Everyday I try and plan my meals and snacks beforehand so I know how many calories I eat and don't get off track. Here is my meal plan today:

Breakfast: Low Sugar Oatmeal, Banana, Fiber: 250 Calories
Snack: Yogurt, Grapes: 130 Calories
Lunch: Panini, Cottage Cheese, Peaches: 300 Calories
Snack: Chips and Salsa: 150 Calories
Dinner: Spinach, Pepper and Cheese Omelette, 1 Piece of Toast: 400 Calories
Snack: 1 Piece of Toast w/ PB: 140
Total: 1370 :) This still gives me 100 calories to spare!

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Confessions...

-I have been HORRIBLE at eating healthy.
-I ate two donuts the other night. Not one, but two.
-I hate the way I look right now
-I went to the doctor yesterday for my 6 month checkup. He wanted to make sure everything was okay with my galbladder, fatty liver disease, and IBS (yes, I'm a package deal). He asked about my weight, I confessed I haven't stuck to my diet and therefore havent lost any. He reminded me about the risks I have with fatty liver disease, scared me by talking about diabetes and transplants, and I promised I would stay away from fatty foods and sugar.
-I want to stay away from those foods to not only prove that I can, but prevent sooo many problems I may have in the future. Plus, the butt-shrinking benefits are always a plus.
-We have a swim party in two days, I can't even imagine walking around in a swimsuit in front of people. I'll think I'll just wear my comfy, long shorts instead
-Yesterday I ate really well and burned 550 calories through exercise alone. The happiness yesterday brought me is way better than any donut.

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Boo Ya!

Today I did something big... I resisted the urge to eat some sort of sugary, fatty food. All day I was craving ice cream, which I get free at work, and I didn't get any! When I got home, all I wanted was to go get a frozen yogurt, and I resisted! I always give in to food temptations. I just forget how bad it will make me feel (physically and emotionally), and I eat it anyway. Its instant gratification on a bad day. So today, I wanted to congratulate myself for not giving in. Man, this feels good! In fact, it feels way better than any icecream I could have had today :)

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Tomato Basil Parmesan Pasta =Heaven

Alright, the first recipe I want to share is from the Fit TV show "Just Cook This". In this episode Sam, the host, showed us viewers several different healthy recipes you could cook in under 10 minutes. This pasta looked so good I had to make it the next day. And guess what? It was soooo easy and delicious.
Tomato-Basil-Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients:
The amounts are not set, it depends on how much you want of each ingredient
Whole Wheat Fettucini noodles- anywhere from a whole box to 1/6 box depending on how many you are feeding. I used about 1/3 box for my husband and I and that was plenty.
Olive Oil- 1 Tbs, this was enough for the 1/3 box of pasta.
Roma Tomatos, pitted and diced- I used 3 and that was alot, but I LOVE tomatos
Fresh Basil, chopped or torn- this is up to you and how much you love basil, I used a few sprigs. Basil is very potent so a little goes a long way.
Parmesan Cheese, shredded- Again, up to you. I probably used 1/2 cup and it was enough for the amount of pasta.
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil, add salt, and cook noodles as per the directions on the box.
2. While the noodles are boiling you can pit and dice the tomatos and basil.
3. Drain the noodles. Put them in a bowl and add olive oil. Toss so that the oil covers all of the noodles. Don't add too much, start with just a little and add more if needed.
4. Mix in the parmesan cheese, tomatos, and basil.
5. Enjoy :)
Calories:
The calories in this meal will vary depending on what type of pasta, olive oil, and cheese you use. It is really easy to calculate on your own.
My calculation: 420 Calories/serving
**My portion size included 1/6 box of pasta, 1/2 tbs of olive oil, 1/4 cup of cheese, and 2 roma tomatos
I am sure this pasta will be 10 times better if you are able to use tomatos and basil from your own garden, I can't wait to try!

Eek!!! Scary!!!

Alright.. now comes the terribly embarrasing part... admitting where I am right now. This is not something I want to do, but I must. If I want to track my progress and have more motivation to stay on track, I need to take theses dreaded pictures and make them public. So here I am (yes, my eyes are totally closed) and here are my stats:

Day: June 7th, 2010
Weight: 148
Pounds Lost: 0
Pounds to Lose: 15

Fresh Start

Welcome to my better body blog!

This blog is a place for me to focus on living a healthier life and hopefully seeing the results! By results I mean more energy, and a less jiggly, more toned and smokin' bod.
This blog is a place where I can share recipes, new ideas, successes, and frustrations.
This blog is a place where I can track my progress and be held accountable by making this personal information (what woman wants to share their weight, before pictures, or daily food intake?) very public.

I want to live a long, long life and I know that if I dont take care of my body while I am young, I will never live to be old. I want to finally accomplish something I have never been able to do-lose weight and keep it off!

Now, when I talk about wanting a better body I am not referring to becoming size 2 (or even 5) and doing whatever it takes to get there. I know that my body is not made that way and that it is not healthy to go to any extreme trying to get there. What I mean is that I want my body to be at it's personal best, which means losing the excess weight but not ever letting it get too thin (although I don't think I will EVER be faced with that problem). I want to learn better eating habits and stick to them.

So now starts my journey to my healthier, better body. Stayed tuned for updates, latest findings, healthy recipes, and such!